Paddle Kayaks · Fishing
The Tarpon name has been around for decades, and there is a reason it is still one of the best-selling sit-on-top kayaks in the world. The Tarpon 105 is the 10-foot-6 version.
The Tarpon name has been around for decades, and there is a reason it is still one of the best-selling sit-on-top kayaks in the world. The Tarpon 105 is the 10-foot-6 version. It is light enough to car-top solo, stable enough to fish from, and fun enough to just paddle for the joy of it.
If you want to skip ahead and see what it costs, check the current price here.
Want to see what it costs? . The full review below covers specs, comfort, handling, and the honest downsides.
Who the Tarpon 105 Is For
This is the kayak for the person who wants one boat that does a little of everything. Paddle for exercise on Saturday, fish the cove on Sunday. At 57.5 pounds, it is light enough for most people to load and launch solo.
Stability: Easy and Forgiving
The Tarpon 105 has a stable, confidence-inspiring hull that works for beginners and experienced paddlers alike. At 32 inches wide, it is steady enough to cast from while seated and to move around on without feeling tippy. It handles chop and boat wakes better than most boats its size. Most owners do not stand in it regularly, but it is a rock-solid seated fishing platform.
Seat Comfort
You get Wilderness Systems’ Phase 3 AirPro seat, which is one of the most comfortable stock seats in the industry. It is fully adjustable with good back support and breathable materials that keep you cool. For a boat in this size and price range, the seating is genuinely impressive.
Storage and Rigging
The Tarpon 105 comes with more storage than you would expect in a 10-and-a-half-foot boat. There is a bow hatch for dry storage, a large rear tankwell with bungee for a crate or cooler, and a removable center dry box that keeps your phone and keys safe. SlideTrax accessory rails let you add a rod holder or a fish finder without drilling.
Paddling Performance
This is where the Tarpon earns its reputation. It paddles easily, tracks well, and turns when you need it to. The 10-foot-6 length makes it maneuverable in tight spots, creeks, and around docks. It is not a speed boat, but for its size it moves well and does not wear you out.
Honest Drawbacks
The Tarpon 105 is a generalist, not a specialist. Dedicated fishing kayaks give you more rod holders, more track, and better standing stability. The 325-pound capacity is fine for most paddlers but limits how much gear you can bring. If you want a rudder, it costs extra. And while it handles light chop well, it is not the boat for big open water on windy days. Know what you are buying and you will love it.
Tarpon 105 Specs
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Length | 10′ 6″ |
| Width | 32″ |
| Weight | 57.5 lbs |
| Capacity | 325 lbs |
| Drive type | Paddle (rudder-ready) |
Wilderness Systems Tarpon 105 Kayak FAQ
How much does the Tarpon 105 weigh?
It weighs 57.5 pounds, which makes it easy to car-top and carry solo.
Is the Tarpon 105 good for fishing?
Yes, for casual to moderate fishing. It is stable and has good storage, though dedicated fishing kayaks offer more rigging.
Can you stand in the Tarpon 105?
Most owners fish seated. It is stable, but it is not designed as a standing platform like wider fishing kayaks.
Does the Tarpon 105 come with a rudder?
No, but it is rudder-ready. The rudder kit is sold separately.
Where to Buy
If the Wilderness Systems Tarpon 105 Kayak sounds like your kind of boat, check the current price:
Also check out our reviews of the Wilderness Systems Tarpon 120 Kayak, Wilderness Systems Recon 120 Fishing Kayak with AirPro ACES Seat, and Wilderness Systems A.T.A.K. 120 Fishing Kayak.
For the latest colors, specs, and warranty details, see the official Wilderness Systems website for the Wilderness Systems Tarpon 105.
Affiliate disclosure: KayakDIY may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through links in this article, at no additional cost to the reader. Product availability, pricing, and promo codes can change; verify them before purchasing.
